United Way of the Plains Event Honors Veterans on May 20

MEDIA ADVISORY
WICHITA, Kan., Friday, May 19, 2023

Event:
United Way of the Plains will host a program to honor veterans and those currently serving in the armed forces. The event is free and open to the public.

When:
Saturday, May 20, 2  – 2:40 p.m.

Where:
IAM District Lodge #70 field at I-235 and S. Meridian Avenue. In case of rain, the event will be moved indoors.

Program: 

• 2 p.m. Welcome
  Teressa Peart
  Secretary/Treasurer, IAM & AW District Lodge #70
• 2:05 p.m. Remarks
  Cornell Beard
  President, IAM & AW District Lodge #70
• 2:10 p.m. Posting of the Colors
  Michael Dillard, COL, USAF (Ret.)
  Derby High School Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) Color Guard
• 2:15 p.m. National Anthem
  Frank Rowell, retired
  IAM & AW LL#839
• 2:20 p.m. Remarks
  Mayor Brandon Whipple
  City of Wichita
• 2:25 p.m. Remarks
  Richard Evans
  Veterans Services Coordinator, IAM Grand Lodge
• 2:30 p.m. Remarks
  William Murphy, retired
  U.S.M.C. Gunnery Sergeant
• 2:40 p.m. Taps
  Frank Rowell, retired
  IAM & AW LL#839

Background:
Flags of Freedom is a grand, two-week display of 600 American flags, hosted by United Way of the Plains and IAM District Lodge #70 to honor, celebrate and remember veterans this Memorial Day. Flags have been on display at the IAM District Lodge #70 field at I-235 and S. Meridian Ave since Monday, May 15. Dedications may be purchased in honor or memory of a service member for $30 each through May 30 at unitedwayplains.org/flagsoffreedom. The names of veterans honored with a dedication are listed on a virtual dedication wall at unitedwayplains.org that will be online through Veterans Day holiday on Nov. 11, 2023. The virtual dedication wall includes space for branch of service, rank and a personal tribute.

This fundraiser supports United Way programs that assist veterans in obtaining transportation, shelter, mental health care and other wrap around services. Flags will be removed from the field on Tuesday, May 30.

Video/Photo Opportunities Available:
Before, during and after program.

Flags of Freedom Drone Footage

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MEDIA CONTACT: Angie Prather, Vice President of Marketing and Chief Community Engagement Officer, (316) 267‑1321, ext. 4105, aprather@unitedwayplains.org

United Way of the Plains is a nonprofit and for-impact organization that focuses on health, education, financial stability and basic needs – the building blocks for a good quality of life and a strong community. Our mission is to improve lives by harnessing the caring power of our community to advance the common good in south central Kansas. Follow us on these social media channels: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.